More than 5 million people in England look after an ill or disabled partner, child, relative or friend. Caring for someone can be a varied and demanding job. This is because of the broad range of medical, personal and emotional needs a person can have.
If you are caring for a family member, you may not consider yourself a carer because you are just doing what needs to be done. You may feel you have no other option. This can be stressful and you may feel resentful towards the person you are caring for, which can leave you feeling guilty. You may have been forced to leave your job, give up hobbies and stop socialising, which can be very isolating.
It is important to remember you are not alone and support is available. By law, you are entitled to a free health and social care assessment, which you can access through your local authority. The assessment will look at the possibility of you getting practical and financial help. Find out about assessments in Carers Direct.
Being a carer means you may be entitled to certain financial benefits, especially if you have to give up work. Find out more about carers' benefits in Carers Direct. Carers can also get help with breaks from caring from local authorities or organisations, such as Crossroads Care. Find out about getting time off in Carers Direct.
